b'FOGHORNFOCUS: MARINE PROPULSIONEmission-reducing Tech Powers Water Transport Around the U.S.Maid of the Mist Chairman & CEO James V. Glynn (left) and President Christopher M. Glynn celebrate the launch of two new all-electric vessels. Source: Maid of the Mist.By Karen Rainbolt, FOGHORN Managing EditorE lectric propulsion is steadily moving forward in theration. Nikola Tesla is named for the Serbian-born engineer maritime industry as a means to propel passengerbehind the design and construction of the worlds first vessels. Several PVA members, both vessel operatorshydro-electric power plant, located in Niagara Falls, N.Y.and suppliers, are involved in multiple electric vesselsNew York State Parks and New York Power Authority projects around the(NYPA) collaborated nation. The two new vessels are 100%with the Maid of the electric and use Niagara Falls hydro-In early October, PVApower to charge their batteries.Mist operators and PVA Vessel member Maid ofAssociate member ABB the Mist, Niagara Falls,to make the electrifica-NY, launched its newtion of the boats a reality. electric sightseeing/ NYPA is providing clean, excursion vessels. Anrenewable hydropower iconic boat tour that hasfor the operation of the navigated the watersvessels and has provided below Niagara Fallstechnical support on the since 1846, has launchedelectrification process. the fi rst two new all-elec- NYPA is going to also tric, zero-emission passenger vessels in the United States.provide ongoing monitoring of electricity usage for the The launch of the James V. Glynn and Nikola Tesla, theboats to ensure they are being energy efficient and cost fi effective. The new vessels are powered by high-capacityrst passenger vessels of their kind in the United States, will markedly enhance the visitor experience, providing abattery packs supplied and integrated by ABB. In addition smooth, quiet trip to and from the base of Niagara Falls,to batteries, ABB has supplied a comprehensive integrat-said Maid of the Mist President Christopher M. Glynn.ed power and propulsion solution, including an onshore With no engine noise, our guests will be amazed by thecharging system, enabling sustainable operation with sounds of nature and the roar of the falls they will hearmaximum reliability.from the decks of our vessels. New York State Lieutenant Governor Kathy Hochul The boats are the fi rst passenger vessels of their kindlauded the effort saying, This new fleet of all-electric in the United States. James V. Glynn is named in honor ofvessels will protect the health of our waterways and en-the longtime Maid of the Mist Chairman and CEO Jamesvironment, and is an example of New York State building V. Glynn who is celebrating his 70th year with the corpo- back better, smarter and greener.6OCTOBER 2020FOGHORN'